“Autism Mom” will lead State Fair craft-making activity to create “an army of advocates” for kids on the spectrum

Autism activist Sheletta Brundidge wants to help Minnesota children better understand their classmates with autism, and she will use a fun, free, original craft activity at the Minnesota State Fair to do it.

On Sunday August 25 from 10 am to noon, Brundidge is inviting all Minnesota families to join her family at the Alphabet Forest in Baldwin Park on the State Fairgrounds.

One of the symbols of autism is a puzzle piece. Brundidge’s craft will allow kids to write characteristics of what it means to be a good friend to a classmate with autism, choosing words like kindness, listening, patience.

“They can color it and take it with them so they won’t forget,” said Brundidge, the mother of three children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Brundidge was moved to take action following the loving embrace between Gov. Tim Walz and his son Gus as the Minnesota governor accepted the vice presidential nomination at the Democratic National Convention. Gus, who is neurodivergent, has been mocked for his tearful expression of pride in his father.

“If someone is mean, cruel and insults a child, there’s nothing I can do. I want to reach out to kids when they are young, at the friend level. One in 36 children have autism, so most kids have a friend with autism in their class, their church or on their team,” Brundidge said.

“I want to create an army of advocates who will grow up understanding and appreciating people with autism.”

Brundidge already has the support of Sen. Tina Smith, who had a chance to learn about her State Fair activity.

“I love it. Too often we focus on disabilities rather than the abilities,” said Minnesota’s junior senator. “The Walz family has reminded us of the importance of kindness and to treat our neighbors how we like to be treated.”

Brundidge is the author of four groundbreaking best-selling picture books based on her family and her children with autism. She will also read aloud from her latest book, “Andrew Does His Dance,” at the Alphabet Forest event.
Throughout the run of the State Fair, Minnesota authors and illustrators of children’s books will be scheduled at the Alphabet Forest from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on a daily basis to share their work with young readers.

For a complete list of participating authors and other free family fun activities at Alphabet Forest, go here .

WHEN:
10 am — 12 noon
August 25, 2024

WHERE:
Alphabet Forest
Minnesota State Fairgrounds—Baldwin Park
Wright Avenue between Cooper and Cosgrove (across from 4-H Building)